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"He was employed since last week, that I know of," she told NOLA.com. "He's a very good worker. His daddy's always talking good about him working hard, working good hours and maintaining his bills and not getting into trouble."

The shocking incident happened on Friday during one of the busiest nights of Mardi Gras when thousands of people throng the streets of Mid-City to watch the elaborate floats and clamour to catch beads and trinkets tossed from riders.

Friday's parade was put on by the Krewe of Endymion, which is known for its long, elaborate floats and the big party it hosts at the Superdome after the parade.

One woman at the scene told The New Orleans Advocate newspaper that a silver truck whisked closely by her as she was walking through the intersection. Carrie Kinsella said: "I felt a rush it was so fast."

Kourtney McKinnis, 20, told the Advocate that the driver of the truck seemed almost unaware of what he had just done. "He was just kind of out of it," she said.

Parade-goers walk by a wrecked car as New Orleans police work at the scene. Photo / AP

Parade-goers walk by a wrecked car as New Orleans police work at the scene. Photo / AP